مُّهْطِعِينَ إِلَى ٱلدَّاعِ ۖ يَقُولُ ٱلْكَـٰفِرُونَ هَـٰذَا يَوْمٌ عَسِرٌ 8
Translations
Racing ahead toward the Caller. The disbelievers will say, "This is a difficult Day."
Transliteration
MuhtaAAeen ila alddaaAAi yaqool alkafiroon hadha yawmun AAasir
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the scene on the Day of Judgment when the disbelievers will be driven forward hurriedly toward the caller (the angel), unable to resist, while they lament that this is a difficult and grievous day. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that 'muhtaeen' (hastening) indicates they are compelled forward against their will, stripped of all power and dignity, while their declaration of it being a 'difficult day' (yawm AAasir) reflects their despair and regret at facing the consequences of their disbelief.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Qamar, a Meccan chapter that extensively describes scenes from the Day of Judgment and warnings to those who reject the message. The broader context of verses 7-8 depicts the moment when all creation is gathered, emphasizing the inescapability of divine justice and the powerlessness of the disbelievers before Allah's command.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said regarding the Day of Judgment: 'The most difficult day for the disbelievers will be the Day of Resurrection' (related to themes in Surah Al-Qamar). Additionally, Hadith Qudsi mentions Allah's statement about those who reject guidance being driven to Hell, reflecting the forced movement described in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a powerful reminder that rejection of Allah's message leads to inevitable accountability, and that the dignity, power, and choices we possess in this life will be stripped away before divine justice. It should inspire believers to accept guidance while they have the opportunity and reflect on the certainty of facing Allah.